5150 Blank Screen

Question

I was using my computer yesterday, and it just shut off. I thought this was rather odd, and hit the power button to turn it back on. It started making all of the regular start up noises, but the screen does nothing. It remain blank the entire time.   I think that the system is starting up normally, the screen just isn't doing anything.   Any ideas?

ejn63 · Answer

Attach an external monitor - if the display on it is OK, you need to have Dell replace the LCD panel if under warranty, or have it repaired if you are out of warranty.

wvaske · Answer

Nothing shows up on the external monitor either.

ejn63 · Answer

Sounds like a failed video card.

wvaske · Answer

I contacted the tech people, and they gave me a list of things to do to try and figure out what the problem is. I did it all, and the last item was sort of the smoking gun.

I removed the memory, and started the computer. The NumLock, CapsLock, ScrollLock LEDs are supposed to show a certain pattern when the computer starts with no memory, but the LEDs did nothing. The tech person said this means my motherboard is bad, and needs to be replaced.

Good thing I have the warranty on it.

GPet · Answer

Gotta love that warranty. Glad that tech support helped you out, now get them out there and change that board and get back up.

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5150 Blank Screen

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